GRAIN Projects (Birmingham), FORMAT, and QUAD (Derby) are delighted to announce a new iteration of their successful East Meets West Masterclass Programme, which will take place in a hybrid format, both in person and online.

The masterclass programme is for UK based emerging photographers and offers professional development, inspiration, guidance and support in a collaborative learning environment in order to allow participants to develop their practice, networks and new unique opportunities.

The programme will offer a platform for photographers to receive guidance and participate in focussed discussions that will contribute to their creative practice and career development.

The masterclasses will be led by industry and artform leaders who will share their knowledge and practical advice on developing a successful career.

This opportunity is aimed at emerging photographers and recent graduates currently based in the UK wishing to broaden their perspectives and push the boundaries of their professional development. We welcome diverse and innovative submissions.

The cost for the Masterclass Programme is £250 and will be payable once accepted onto the programme. We have two bursary places available at £150, for participants who live in either the West or East Midlands.

There will be a production budget provided for participants to work as a collective to create a self-directed joint outcome of their choosing, such as a newspaper, publication, event or exhibition to be presented at FORMAT25 in Derby in March 2025.

How To Apply:

Please send your applications by the 5th November as one PDF to programme@derbyquad.co.uk with ‘East Meets West Application’ in the subject line.

• CV
• Outline explaining why you would like to apply for the programme and how you think it will benefit you (maximum 250 words).
• Link to your website and social media or a PDF with a selection of images.
• If you are based in the West or East Midlands please note on your application if you would like to be considered for both the bursary price and standard price.
• Deadline 5th November

East Meets West is supported by Arts Council England, Birmingham City University and the University of Derby.

Deadline for Applications: 5th November.

We support and provide adjustments for people with disabilities and access support needs – if you have a disability or access support needs and need help with the application process or would prefer to send your application in an alternative format please contact us on info@formatfestival.com

Masterclass Schedule (subject to change):

• 27th November: Welcome/Ice breaker – Online, 6-8pm.
• 7th December: Birmingham, All day. With Clare Hewitt & Max Gorbatskyi
• 11th January: Online, All day. With Vivienne Gamble & Lydia Goldblatt
• 25th January: Online, All day. With Colin Pantall & Jermaine Francis
• 8th February: QUAD, Derby, All day. With Kavi Pujara & Sebah Chaudhry
• 13th March: FORMAT25 Launch

Main image (c) Paul Railton